The rapid progression of mobile, wireless, and digital technology might make us believe that nothing can astound us anymore. However, a glimpse into history reveals fascinating and familiar designs that demand our attention.
The tools in our homes today have evolved drastically from what past generations used, all thanks to continuous innovation spanning several decades. We aren't just talking about radio and television sets; even household necessities like vacuum cleaners and washing machines have witnessed their own transformations and technological improvements. This article examines vintage inventions that epitomize visionary ideas and early prototypes that played a crucial role in shaping the extraordinary technology we enjoy today.
Related: 13 Quirky Vintage Inventions That Should Be Brought Back
1. One of the first Osborne 1 laptops, 1981
2. Electric toaster from 1920
3. First lawn mower, 1916
4. Pedal roller skates, 1910
5. Housewife doing laundry using the first electric washing machine - Eatonville, USA (C. 1910)
6. Michaux-Perreaux Steam-Vélocipède, 1869. It is one of three motorcycles claimed to be the first motorcycle.
7. The IBM 305 RAMAC, the first computer with a hard drive: $10,000 per megabyte
8. The 10-pound headphones from the 1880s. It had one earpiece connected to a phone and a big microphone hanging on the shoulder.
9. The first computer mouse (1964), invented by Douglas Engelbart
10. Electric kettle, designed by Peter Behrens. AEG, Berlin, 1909
11. Hair dryer (1920). The new dryers were quite heavy, weighing around 2 pounds (0.9 kg), and were difficult to use.
12. The first mass-produced TV set was sold in 1946 and 1947
13. James King invented and patented the first washing machine with a rotating drum. The drum is partially filled with water.
14. Booth's original red trolley British vacuum cleaner, 1905
15. A classic Emerson Transistor Radio, 1958
